The Republic of Malta is an ideal place for Overseas Filipino Workers looking for professional development and an economical way of life. This island country located in Southern Europe is home to historic sites and beautiful tourist spots, no wonder OFWs love to work here. With its robust economy, excellent living conditions, and tax-friendly climate, migrant workers can easily find a job in the country.
If you’re an OFW in Malta, you need to apply for OWWA membership and keep it active every two years to claim your benefits and programs. Active members can access many different services that fit their needs including legal and financial assistance. You may also apply if you acquired a job using your visit visa to prepare during emergencies and other unforeseen events. There are a few documents you need to submit and some qualifications to meet before you can process your application.
Requirements for OWWA in Malta
In terms of requirements, you must be actively working in Malta to apply for or renew your OWWA status. You can show a few relevant documents as proof of active employment such as payslip, employment contract, or Certificate of Employment. In addition to these documents, you may also need to get a confirmed appointment if you’re applying on-site.
Malta is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy in Italy so OFWs need to submit the same documentary requirements that OFWs in Italy submit during the renewal process. The following are the complete requirements that you need to submit to MWO Rome to renew your OWWA account:
- Duly accomplished OWWA Membership Form or OFW Information Sheet
- Original copy and photocopy of Philippine passport with data page and signature
- For on-site applications, a copy of the confirmed appointment
- Residence or work permit such as permit to stay for family reasons, permit to stay for work, Employment Contract, or permanent residence
- Proof of active employment such as latest payslip, verified contract, company ID, or any relevant document that verifies present employment
- For dual citizens, a copy of the Oath of Allegiance with an Identification Certificate
- Payment for the OWWA membership fee equivalent to US$25
OWWA Fees and Payment Process
You need to pay an amount equivalent to US$25 in euros based on the current foreign exchange rate for the membership fee. Each paid contribution automatically awards active members with two years of validity regardless of the job site, recruitment agency, or duration of the contract. You can claim OWWA benefits and programs within that period and enjoy other special services exclusive to OFWs with OWWA membership.
Remember that the payment method will depend on how you process your application, either on-site or online. You can pay the OWWA contribution fee during your appointment with the Consular Outreach Mission or at the MWO office in Rome. In addition, you can use an e-wallet service or bank transfer to settle the payment if you processed your application through the OWWA Mobile App.
Here’s how you can pay the membership fee on-site at MWO Rome:
Step 1: Go to the MWO Rome’s official website or use the Appointment Reservations portal to get an appointment.
Step 2: Select OWWA Membership and tap on the Schedule Appointment button.
Step 3: Choose your preferred time and date, then tap Confirm.
Step 4: Key in your full name, Philippine mobile number, email address, and tap Schedule Event.
Step 5: Print a copy or take a photo of your confirmed appointment and bring it to MWO Rome.
Step 6: Go to the OWWA window and present all the documents for evaluation.
Step 7: Wait for the confirmation before paying the contribution fee at the payment counter.
Step 8: Claim the official receipt.
Procedure for Getting an OWWA Malta Appointment Online
According to current data, there’s no online appointment system for OFWs in Malta who want to renew their OWWA status. This is because this country doesn’t have an MWO office, and it is currently under the jurisdiction of OWWA Rome. You can reach out to the MWO Office in Rome to inquire about their services or raise labor-related concerns.
In Rome, the designated MWO office has an online appointment portal to help OFWs when applying for or renewing their OWWA account. To know whether they allow OFWs in Malta to use the system, you can contact the MWO-Rome office to get the latest updates. You may also reach out to the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Swatar for more details regarding membership applications.
For OFWs vacationing in the Philippines, they can get an appointment via the nearest DMW branch in their area or at the OWWA Regional office to renew their account. Make sure you have all the required documents to confirm your appointment.
How to Renew OWWA Membership in Malta
As mentioned, OFWs in Malta can apply for membership or process their renewal with MWO Rome or via Consular Outreach Mission. These are conducted on-site and you need to get an appointment before visiting the office. You are advised to reach out to the concerned office such as the MWO Rome, the Philippine Embassy in Italy, or the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Swatar to understand how the actual process works.
It’s also an option for OFWs to contact their agencies to easily navigate the application process. However, the most convenient process to apply for or renew your OWWA account is via the mobile app. If you don’t have time for the on-site application, you can simply download the OWWA Mobile App on your smartphone and renew your status anytime you want.
Video: How to Update Your OWWA Membership in Malta
In this video, you will see how the actual process of renewing your OWWA account in Malta works. It includes all the tips to help you make the process easier and more convenient.
Summary
If you’ve reached this point, you are now prepared to renew your OWWA account in Malta and enjoy all the benefits that come with it. You are advised to renew your status every two years to continue claiming OWWA benefits and programs to improve your life and your family in the Philippines.